Members of local running club Jesmond Joggers are staying busy and motivated during these colder nights as they prepare for two major events.

Members are gearing up for the North East Cross Country Championships next month in South Shields where they will compete, in their traditional blue vests, across a range of age categories. Jesmond Joggers is also preparing for its annual Christmas charity run. In previous years, runners have raised money for homelessness charity Shelter and local charity Feeding Families, which supports people struggling with food insecurity.

A thriving running club with more than 200 members, Jesmond Joggers has grown steadily since the COVID-19 pandemic. While major running events like the Great North Run inspire some runners to join Jesmond Joggers – 65 members took part in September’s run – chair Simon Wells told JesmondLocal that the club’s appeal extends year-round, drawing people from all walks of life who share a love of running and community.

According to Wells, the club’s membership spiked as the restrictions of COVID-19 eased, attracting people looking for both physical exercise and social connection. “We recently had to create a waiting list for people who wanted to join” he said, “so that we can manage safely the number of members on club nights and to ensure that members get the experience of belonging to the club. For example we ensure that new members are assigned to a group on club nights so that they can run within their ability.”

Wells said Jesmond Joggers takes pride in creating a welcoming and inclusive space where runners, whether seasoned athletes or beginners, feel they belong. Members compete in a wide variety of events, from local cross-country races and marathons to ultra-marathons and fell races. The club’s North East Harrier League cross country teams are particularly strong this year, with the women in Division 1 and men in Division 2, both recently coming second in last month’s round of races in Lambton.

Jesmond Joggers runners regularly participate in marathons and events internationally. In just the last couple of months, members have competed in the Amsterdam, Yorkshire, and Frankfurt marathons, the Dubai Half Marathon and the Wild Deer Ultra 52km Trail Run. Many members are also regulars at local Parkruns at the Town Moor, Jesmon Dene and Leazes.

The club is also community-focused: members frequently raise funds for local causes, foodbanks and charities, including the community-run Jesmond Pool and Gym. Last year, club runners collectively raised £11,317 for various charities as part of their participation in the Great North Run.

Aside from running, Jesmond Joggers also holds weekly yoga sessions, to help members with their overall physical and mental wellbeing. Club members organise their own separate outdoor swimming, cycling and trail running groups too.

The club has adopted England Athletics’ “Run and Talk” initiative. Once a month, members come together for an easy run that is designed to promote both physical and mental wellbeing. It’s an opportunity for members to connect, chat and check in on one another. Wells said it shows the club’s commitment to supporting the whole person, not just the runner.

To find out more, email jesmondjoggers2006@gmail.com